Grain Facts

Learn what grains are, where they come from, why we need them, and how to cook and store them. This page includes common grain examples, simple cooking tips, a favorite rice recipe, and more ways to explore grains in the kitchen.

Where Do Grains Come From?

Grains are the fruits of grasses and plants. Whole kernels are sometimes called berries.

Grains come from grasses and grain plants.
Some grains are eaten as whole kernels.
Some grains are ground into flour or meal.
Many foods we eat every day are made from grains.

Why We Need Grains

Grains are a source of carbohydrates, protein, and other minerals. They help provide energy and are used in many everyday foods.

Grains Include

Rice, both brown and white
Barley
Oats
Rye
Cornmeal or polenta
Wheat, which is used in bread, pasta, flour, and many cereals

Nutrition Tip: Whole wheat and other whole grains are often a better choice for nutrition because they keep more of the original grain.

Grain Storage Tips

Store grains in airtight containers. Many grains like white rice, white flour, and oats last a long time stored this way. Brown rice and whole wheat flour can go rancid more quickly, so store them in the freezer or use them within a few months if kept in the cupboard.

Quick Tip: Label containers with the date so kids can help track how fresh the grains are.

Grain Cooking Tips

How to Cook Grains

Always cook grains in a larger pot because they fluff up and take more room when cooked.
Toast grains in a small amount of oil or butter if you want to add more flavor.
Add water or broth and cook until the grains are tender.

Learn more about cooking a variety of whole grains.

Food Science Tie-In

Grains change as they cook because they absorb liquid and soften. This is why dry rice or oats become larger and softer after cooking.

Mini Activity

Compare Dry and Cooked Grains

Look at a spoonful of dry rice or oats.
Cook the grain according to package directions or a recipe.
Compare the size, texture, and smell before and after cooking.
Talk about how the grains changed when they absorbed liquid.

Try these Food Trivia Worksheets

Grain Recipes

To enhance flavor, you can toast grains in a small amount of oil, like in the recipe below.

Our Favorite Rice

This simple rice recipe is toasted in butter and oil, then simmered until tender for extra flavor.

Category: Side Dish
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes

Ingredients

3 cups rice
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons oil
3 cups water or chicken broth
1 cup chopped onions, optional
1 cup chopped celery, optional

Instructions

In a frying pan, brown 3 cups of rice in 1 tablespoon butter and 2 tablespoons oil.
If using, sauté chopped onions and or celery with the butter and oil.
Brown until the rice looks glassy.
Add 3 cups of water or chicken broth.
Cover and cook 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Learn More: Learn more about cooking whole grains.